The course is designed to help women make educated decisions about resisting an attack and to enhance opportunities for fighting back, Lord said.

Initially, the course will be offered to girls and women from ages 17 (high school seniors) through 21 who live or attend school in Lake Forest. Class sizes will be limited to 20, Lord said.

If there is enough interest in the course, Lord said, it will be offered to other age groups.

The course will be taught by police officers who are certified instructors, Lord said. It will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. on April 20 and April 27, , and from 3 to 6 p.m. on April 21 and April 28 at the Lake Forest Recreation Center, 400 Hastings Rd., she said.

Preregistration is required and forms are available at the Police Department, 225 W. Deerpath Rd., Lord said.